Fun-filled week ends in tears for school leavers

Their first day of fun and challenge was at Fox Lake Activity Centre where they competed in a unique low ropes course challenge over water named Foxfall, as well as tearing up and down the lake on big inflatables known as Ringos; a drenching day for all.

Next came a visit to Lightwater Valley, which started with the challenge of getting to school by 7am to get on the road. Although the journey took about three hours, it was well worth it.

Everyone had an amazing time trying out all the rides, including its signature ride The Ultimate, which provides a thrilling 1.5-mile cocktail of speed, cornering and airtime and remains the longest roller coaster in Europe, with a ride time approaching six minutes.

Back at school for a day, the pupils were put through their paces in a series of activities organised and run by Debra Jerdan of Berwick Cadets. These included a rotating climbing wall, undercover surveillance and problem-solving challenges.

Berwick youth worker Merrick Thompson worked with groups den-building using the minimum of materials. The activity gave time for children to reflect on how life for some children who live in disaster-prone areas around the world can be extremely different to their own.

As is now traditional, the Year 8 Prom provided an extra special evening for the students who turned out in the smartest of outfits. Rory Lathangie, Sophie Paterson and Kit Cawthorn provided the speeches which reflected on the year group’s time at Berwick Middle and included many thank-yous to all the staff who have worked with them. The evening ended with a well-rehearsed prom dance.

A trip to Gateshead followed next; pupils spent the day practising their ten-pin bowling skills and also had the chance to try out the dodgem cars.

Their last trip out was a scenic walk in the St Abbs and Coldingham area which included a picnic lunch on the beach.

Finally, the time came for the pupils to say goodbye and this was formally marked with a Leavers’ Assembly. There were plenty of tears but also lots of well wishes for each and every student as they move on to their next step in education.